If you have a local business, the quickest way to get first page rankings is to utilize a powerful, but often overlooked, Google service called Google Places.  Its free, easy, and even gets a phone call from GoogleBot itself!

If you’ve ever done a localized search, you’ve likely seen places in action.  Generally, it shows up as a conglomerated map listing in the first slot of a SERP result:

Getting incorporated into these listings starts by signing up with Places using your either your gmail, adwords account, or webmaster tools account (you have signed up with Webmaster Tools, haven’t you?).  Before you sign up, you should check the Google Places Policy to ensure you’re not in violation of the Places guidelines.  If all is copacetic, you’re ready to begin.

First, on the Google Places homepage, click Add New Business.  This will take you to a form where you fill out the vitals of your business (Company name, address, phone number and website).  The address and phone number are required fields, but the company name and website are important, as that is what will determine how the link in the listing will appear.  The company name will be the link anchor for the website.

After you’re finished and clicked Next you will be brought to some additional, but optional, information.  Don’t overlook this, as it will give you some greater flexibility in determining what you want to rank for.  Categories and Photos specifically, as categories will help give Google greater insight into what your business is about, and photos are a great place to put your company logo.

Once every thing is entered to your liking, you’re ready to Submit.  This will give you the option of how you wish to verify your company with Google, either a phone call or postcard.  While getting a “Wish You Were Here” card from Google is nice, the phone call option is much more quick and efficient, and you can even do it on your mobile phone!

The benefit to Google Places is you can change your listing as your company changes, giving you greater flexibility in your local SEO campaign.

Have a custom web application you need built? Contact Thirdi today!

Related posts:

1. SEO Sunday: How to use Google WebMaster Tools
2. Thirdi SEO Tips & Techniques – Get A Site Indexed With Webmaster Tools
3. RIP landline: Google Voice is here

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